Over the years, I have mentally divided the population into two groups. Those that love animals, and everyone else. And among those that do, I have had the pleasure of meeting many that I call Animal Angels. The people that give countless hours to the care and feeding of homeless shelter pets. We have had thirteen “children”, all of which had/have four legs. As such, we have been the recipient of unrequited love and more joy then we could ever have hoped for. With only a couple of exceptions, all have come from shelters or unwanted litters and without exception, there hasn’t been one clinker in the crowd.

So here it is. Christmastime once again, the time of giving. We cannot help but notice the bell-ringers and be conscious of the campaigns like Coats for Kids and Toys for Tots. Worthy causes all, and I support them. But I also think of the homeless shelters that are full of beautiful “kids” that could use a Santa Paws. I know that not everyone is able or interested in adopting a pet, and that’s OK. But there are other ways we can help. Some shelters have “sponsor a pet” programs for small donations.

All shelters are always grateful for assistance. They turn away no animal in need, regardless of how tight their funds may be. Most of the care extended is through volunteer help, the Angels who nurture, and foster, all their orphans.

You can make a difference and it doesn’t take a lot to do so. If you have any old towels or blankets, they would love to have them. Or small donations of cat or dog food, toys, paper towels, ziploc bags, trash bags, kitty litter or laundry detergent go a long way toward stretching their available funds to offset the cost of neutering/spaying, feeding, and maintaining a warm and safe environment for those “between families.”

What do you say? Would you be willing to be a Santa Paws this year? I am sure there are shelters in your area that would be thrilled to receive your donations. The Angels will thank you and the “canine and feline kids” will benefit from your generosity.

Originally published December 2013

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About oldmainer

I am retired and live in southern Maine with my wife and two dogs. I started Oldmainer .wordpress.com as an outlet for my occasional opinions and random observations, with some poetry thrown in. I welcome anyone that wants to kick back and join me here on the porch, exploring all the gifts we have been given and the memories collected. Thanks for stopping by.